Look #5: Jeans (budget-friendly option here) // Silk Camisole (budget-friendly option here) // Long Cardigan // Ballet Flats (budget-friendly option here) // Earrings // Watch // Bag (budget-friendly options here and here) //
Extras: Velvet Bowed Ballet Flats // Necklace // Eyeshadow Palette // Lucite Clutch
Hello! Welcome to Look #5! As we move along through the different looks that we can build using our essential 25, I’m trying to be mindful of the season and timing. With parties, dinners, and holiday get-togethers all over your calendar right now, you’re probably looking for some outfit inspiration. While I think it’s perfectly appropriate to add a few “extras” here and there, particularly at this time of year (for special occasions when they’re actually needed, and when they can probably be snagged for a great price with all the holiday sales), I’m also committed to showing that you absolutely can go year-round with very few, if any, extra items outside our essential 25 pieces. Sure, you make look less formal, or less showy than some other women … but I happen to think there’s nothing more beautiful and classy than understated elegance. And you’ll get plenty of that with nothing more than the essential 25.
As you’ll see above, you can put together a sophisticated, cozy outfit perfect for Sunday brunch, dinner at someone’s home, or a casual holiday outing (holiday parade, tree lighting). If you want to make things a bit more dressy, just add pumps instead of your ballet flats. A swipe of red lipstick (this one is my favorite) adds a festive touch too, or go for a soft smoky eye (with neutral lips). And if you’re open to splurging on some extras, go for a pretty, embellished shoe. Shoes are one of the easiest ways to change your look, and if done right, even an embellished pair can be worn all year long with a variety of outfits (it’s easy when your closet includes mostly neutrals). Another option is to purchase a small handbag or clutch for special occasions. The one I chose above is a gorgeous, comes in three different colors, and I can all but assure you it will be on sale for Black Friday. Add it to your cart now so it’s ready to purchase in the mad frenzy on Friday! Finally, if you’re looking to add some warmth to your look, throw on this plush, oversized shearling scarf.
And if holiday extras are your thing, be sure to check back later this week — I’m putting together a special post on holiday dressing. I’ve selected some beautiful “extras” you may wish to splurge on, but I’ll also make recommendations for how you can substitute each item with what you already have in your essential 25 to achieve a similar look.
I hope you all have a wonderful start to the week … it’s a short one with Thanksgiving just a few days away!
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